Highest-Paying College Majors in 2025: Where the Jobs and Money Are

Choosing a major is one of the biggest decisions you will make. While passion matters, understanding the job market and earning potential can help you make an informed choice.

The Top Earning Fields

Engineering Dominates

Engineering has the highest average starting salary at 76,736 dollars. Aerospace engineering majors earn a median of 125,000 dollars mid-career, with computer, electrical, chemical, and mechanical engineering all exceeding 115,000 dollars.

Computer Science and Tech

The demand for software developers, data scientists, and AI specialists continues to skyrocket. Computer Science majors can expect:

Healthcare Remains Strong

Medical fields consistently rank among the highest-paying:

Nursing ranks number one for employment with just a 1.42 percent unemployment rate.

Business and Finance

Finance majors reach a median wage of 110,000 dollars by mid-career. Chief Executives earn over 250,000 dollars, Financial Managers 174,820 dollars, and Actuaries around 120,000 dollars with expected 22 percent job growth.

The Surprise: Humanities Are Rising

Here is something unexpected: BlackRock is COO stated they need more people who majored in history, English, and subjects unrelated to finance or technology. Why? The rise of AI is driving demand for creative thinking and soft skills that humanities graduates excel at.

What This Means For You

STEM Offers Security

STEM degrees consistently offer low unemployment rates, high starting salaries, and long-term demand.

Skills Matter Across Fields

Transferable skills like data analysis, leadership, project management, and digital communication boost earning potential regardless of your major.

Balance Passion and Practicality

While salary matters, weighing your interests, strengths, and lifestyle goals alongside financial considerations helps avoid burnout and find lasting fulfillment.

Using DeepCampus for Career Planning

Our university search lets you filter by program strength in specific majors. Our AI recommendations match you with schools known for strong outcomes in your field of interest. Explore career paths before committing to a major.

Your major is just the starting point. Choose wisely, develop versatile skills, and your career options will multiply.